Layered Taco Salad with Avocado Ranch Dressing

Taco salad is a pretty common dinner at our house.  Last time I made it, I changed things up a little and layered it with a few new things. I also made up a new dressing to go with it- Low-fat Avocado Ranch.  It that was amazing.

 For the Salad:
1 can of pinto or black beans, drained
1 lb Ground beef
1 pkg Taco seasoning
Chopped lettuce
Diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
Grated cheese
1 onion, diced
1 pkg Spanish rice mix

Cook the ground beef and diced onions together.  Mix in the taco seasoning.  While the meat is cooking, also cook the rice according to package directions.  In a large bowl, layer meat, beans and rice.  Top with lettuce, then lastly the cheese and tomatoes.  You could also add in some green onions, or black olives- all would be delicious!  Top with some dressing and toss all together.

Here is the dressing I used.  It was so good.  It makes a lot, but it does keep in the fridge for a little while.  I used it up in about a week. 


Low-fat Avocado Ranch Dressing
1 small container low fat or fat free cottage cheese
1 ripe avocado
1 pkg powdered ranch dressing mix
1 Tbsp lime juice
1/2 c. water (about)

Mix all ingredients together in a blender- you may need a little more or less water, make it to your desired thickness.